The Merchant Marine Express

Able Seamen (AB), Qualified Members of the Engine Department (QMED), or even Stewards or cooks enjoy the family-like lifestyles at sea or on the great lakes. The family, from which we were raised, might not gather together at frequent intervals back on shore, or offer the camaraderie that one would not expect, elsewhere. But, let it be said that any seaman who goes to sea or works with other mariners, belongs to a great family of fellow shipmates and who are somewhat obligated to offer the friendship and in turn, gain the respect like no other group in the world. In an isolated environment where shipmates gather to dine,work alongside each other on a daily basis, and who may share stories of their past experiences and blurt out an occasional joke, it must be emphasized that tension may exist as these periods of shipping-out may make a person particularly sensitive due to some of the mundane or repetitiveness of the job. Not being able to leave the ship, for days if not weeks on end, may also present itself problems. But once the green light is given for shore leave, after the vessel calls into port,the mariner’s conscience is wiped clean of the worries of shipboard life once work is finished for the day and an establishment such as a pub or supermarket has been eyed. A concoction guzzled or some snacks quickly purchased and consumed; even the smallest purchase may reap the largest smile from within.

The steps to acquire a position aboard a vessel, can be somewhat complicated,as well. The industry at sea is regulated with strict authority from government agencies whereby identification procedures, testing of sorts or monitoring of credentials occurs on a regular basis. Drug testing seems rampant as regular six month intervals of providing samples along with a surprise random test aboard recent ships have been noted to have happened.

Physicals are required yearly as a prerequisite for employment for most companies. And a stringent work ethic that demands constant upkeep and maintenance of equipment keeps the average mariner on their toes.

A stop at the local Coast Guard Regional Examination Center (REC) and applying for a Merchant Mariners Document (MMD) or Z-Card as most mariners are familiar, will start the process of becoming a part of a great family of mariners, on the water. Most applicants who want to start their career in the merchant marine may join a union, as well. Seafarers International Union (SIU), Sailors Union of the Pacific (SUP), Inland Boatmen’s Union (IBU), are a few examples of the “unlicensed” unions that are represented in the United States for mariner jobs at sea.

American Maritime Union (AMO), Masters, Mates and Pilots (MMP), Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA) represent membership of some of the “Licensed officers” of the United States. All the unions have websites and can offer assistance with procedural methods on obtaining employment at sea. There might be upfront costs for establishing work within the maritime industry, but in the end, the reward pays back exponentially. Joining the family of seafaring members are similar in nature to siblings at home whom we are comfortable being with. Consider this a second family,possibly the sole supporter for morale or competitive gain.
Have a great day folks!

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